I was born in Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester in the UK into a lively and politicised single-parent household. I spent much of my childhood reading fantasy books and exploring the dramatic local countryside fuelled solely by Kendal Mint Cake and a vivid imagination. Unsurprisingly a love of the natural world and a hint of mystery often appear in my writing.

At the tender age of seven I won a poetry competition. Since then I have had a brief sojourn as an actress and singer touring with the wild and wonderful late Brian Behan; worked as a journalist; and written poems, short stories, three novels and two novellas. I have worked in local government and trade unionism for the last 20 years, which engendered a passionate belief in public services and equality.

I live in Brighton in a loving if sometimes hectic menagerie including my husband, kids, step-kids and pets. I love hot curries, cold white wine, long walks, passionate conversations and laughing until it hurts. Most of all I love words, the infinite worlds they create and the limitless opportunities they provide to communicate and connect.